Ahmadinejad's "vision" at the UN could be dismissed as political posturing if it weren't for a string of similar statements and actions that suggest he believes that he is destined to bring about the "end times" - the end of the world - by paving the way for the return of the Shiite Muslim messiah. Given that Iran continues to pursue suspect nuclear programs, which could bring the Islamic Republic dangerously close to a weapons capability, a leader with messianic visions is worrying. After all, this is the same man who recently pledged to use Iran's newfound powers to "wipe Israel off the map" and to "destroy America."

In a November 16 speech in Tehran to senior clerics who had come from all over Iran to hear him, the new president said that the main mission of his government was to "pave the path for the glorious reappearance of Imam Mehdi (may God hasten his reappearance)." The mystical 12th imam of Shiite Islam disappeared as a child in 941, and Twelver Shiites have awaited his reappearance ever since, believing that when he returns he will reign on earth for seven years, before bringing about the Last Judgment and the end of the world.

Ironic that so many people have their twist on the 'messianic return' :-o

Bouncer

02-09-2006 02:17 PM

Re: Iranian President believes he can hasten Messianic Return through WAR

Interesting that he wants to "destroy" America, but his desire for Israel is "Wipe off the map." Is there some deep talking going on here?

Despite his relatively innocuous sabre-rattling, there's no way he should be a nyookyoolar power, brother!

And another thing: there might be assassins coming as we speak; they could have several targets for assassination. They will be full of hatred and "righteous" anger because they believe that their god Allah will vindicate their murderous acts. This fits with the principle of circualr attack, peano.